How much does low voltage electricity cost in Bhutan?

The unsubsidised average tarif (or average cost of delivery) of low voltage electricity in Bhutan is estimated at 5.81 BTN/kWh. The cost of delivery of electricity is likely to be much higher in regions that are remote and/or sparsely populated.

How is the energy sector governed in Bhutan?

The energy sector of Bhutan is governed, planned and co-ordinated by two key ministries: the Ministry of Economic Afairs (MOEA) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests (MoAF).

Are heat pumps a viable option for space heating in Bhutan?

Powered by the hydroelectricity-based grid, these heat pumps ofer a viable opportunity for increasing the penetration of renewable energy in heating end-uses in Bhutan. Air- and ground-sourced heat pumps, both of which run on electricity, are both viable options for space heating in Bhutan (DRE–MOEA, 2018).

How much electricity does Bhutan generate?

Of-grid hydropower and solar home lighting systems accounted for a very small percentage of electricity generation in 2014 (Figure 1). Bhutan’s installed power generation capacity in 2017 was 1.6 gigawatts (GW), representing only 6% of its techno-economic feasible hydropower potential.

How can the energy industry be diversified in Bhutan?

Diversification of the energy industry of Bhutan requires a significant uptake of renewable energy in end-use sectors and an overarching improvement in energy eficiency. Heating and transportation are two major arenas with tremendous potential for the adoption of renewable energy within their end-use sectors.

How can energy pricing improve energy eficiency in Bhutan?

Reforms to energy pricing can help level the playing field for renewable energy technologies, thus incentivising their uptake in both on-grid and of-grid settings. In the specific case of Bhutan, improving energy eficiency is a fundamental and cost-efective first step towards integration of renewables in all sectors.